Amanda Herrera
Already planning on which restaurant to dine in after the quarantine? Look no further as Manila is the ultimate hub for your food cravings! Here is a list of restaurants in the city that are worth the hype.
1. Mirèio at Raffles
Mirèio is the ideal spot for an intimate afternoon for you and your loved ones. This French restaurant boasts a breathtaking view of Makati, along with a delightful fine-dining experience. Some stand-out dishes include the delicate nicoise salad, duck breast with a pan-seared foie gras atop sweet pumpkin puree, and a stunning Pistachio-olive cake with white chocolate.
Besides their relaxing ambiance and quality service, the presentation of their dishes are very creative – perfect for Instagram stories.
The Essentials
- Address: 9th Level 1 Raffles Drive, Makati Ave, Makati
- Operating hours: Monday-Sunday (6-10:30 am, 12-2:30 pm, 6:-10:30 pm)
- Contact no.: (02) 7795 0707
2. Propaganda
Looking for a new food spot for barkada hang-outs? Propaganda is a must. The restaurant resembles an underground hub, as it showcases modern and graphic art. Aside from refreshing interiors, their flavors also pack a punch. One crowd favorite is their palm-sized paté banh mi, filled with braised pork floss, cilantro, pickled veggies, and one-of-a-kind chili mayo.Customers usually enjoy their banh mi with ginger pandan or lemongrass juice served in aesthetic mason jars. Their kitchen and staff are spritely and accommodating, too.
The Essentials
- Address: Level 2, Greenbelt 5, Legazpi Village, Makati
- Operating hours: Monday-Sunday (11am-10pm)
- Contact no.: (02) 7576 1908
3. Kazunori
In Chino Roces, Kazunori brings the flavors of Japan straight to you. Simple yet sophisticated – Kazunori is a gem for foodies searching for high-quality and authentic Japanese cuisine. Amongs my personal favorites is the sweet unagi don with velvety organic egg atop a glutinous rice base.
Japanese-style pizza garnished with succulent beef and herbs is also a favored dish -and a unique one, no less. The overall ambiance of the restaurant is serene, almost as if you are situated in a hotel plaza. The staff is also courteous and service is commendable.
With an inviting mini bar, this is a great spot for small groups of friends to bond over sake, too.
The Essentials
- Address: G/F, Mazda Makati Building, 2301 Chino Roces Ave Ext, Makati
- Operating hours: 11am-11pm
- Contact no.: 0917 836 2695
4. Mecha Uma
Mecha Uma, or “absurdly delicious”, certainly lives up to its name. The brainchild of the talented Chef Bruce Ricketts makes its way to BGC. The ambiance is very laid back, serving only a few customers at a time to ensure quality service. They serve a 10-course omakase meal (each with their own story to be explained by your server).
Setting itself apart from typical dining experiences, Mecha Uma takes its customers’ senses on an exploratory journey to flavor and fusion. Their savory uni toast, tender wagyu flank steak with creamy pistachio puree, and silk-like panna cotta are definitely on the top of my list.
This restaurant is best for dinners. Their service never disappoints!
The Essentials
- Address: G/F RCBC Savings Bank Corporate Center, 25th Street, Taguig
- Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 6-10pm (closed on Sunday)
- Contact no: 0919 084 5537
5. Mamou
Mamou is one of the most popular steakhouses in Manila, and rightfully so! Their bestselling angus rib-eye is an absolute feast. The meat is exceptionally tender, and Mamou’s distinctive oil adds a ton of flavor to the dish. Pair it with their creamy truffle pasta.
The ambience in Mamou can be likened to that of a lively bistro. Service is always speedy, considering how packed the restaurant often is.
Thinking of a place to wine and dine with your mom, friends, or significant other? Book that reservation in Mamou. You won’t regret it!
The Essentials
- Address: Ground Floor, Serendra, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
- Operating hours: Monday-Friday (12-3pm, 6-10pm); Saturday (11am-3pm, 6-10pm); Sunday (10am-3pm, 6-10pm)
- Contact no: 0917 816 2668
